Calculated Image

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Portrait Photography

“Photography is about savoring life at 1/100th of a second” according to French photographer Marc Riboud. Photography is an art form and just as an artist carefully chooses a setting, composition and color to blend the perfect painting, so your photographer knows that if these same elements are not in harmony the mood of your portrait will be very different from what you are expecting. We at Calculated Image try to capture not just an image of you, but YOU, your personality.

As the photographer, I will take care to use the proper techniques and composition, but may I make some suggestions to help you make your portrait be even better than your expectations.

Clothing

When choosing what you will wear for your portrait keep in mind that a number of things will affect your portrait such as where it will hang, how the light hits it, how well the subjects choose coordinating colors and also choosing colors that compliment your skin tones.

It is best to choose long sleeves or ¾ sleeves over sleeveless or short sleeves as elbows don’t always look the best in a portrait (although they are very handy things to have).

Bright colors, white and bold patterns such as large stripes and polka dots tend to draw the eye away from the person in the portrait. An exquisite piece of clothing should not be worn as your main clothing choice, but should be brought along as one of your clothing changes.

Choosing clothing styles/colors for a family or group is a little more difficult than for just an individual or a couple. First choose a color that will complement the color in the room in which the portrait will hang using solid colors and simple lines that are pleasing to the eye. Avoid mixing in too many colors or patterns as this will distract from the faces in the portrait.

When deciding on what changes of clothing to bring, make sure you have your favorites with you! This could be something simple like a T-shirt and shorts, a sports uniform or formal attire. And make sure you have clean, appropriate shoes as well!

If you wear eyeglasses consider removing them or have an empty frame in a similar style. Sometimes opticians will lend you a pair in a similar style or will remove /replace your lenses for you.

Grooming

Men: Unless you like the grunge look, shave shortly before your appointment.

Hair Styling

Women: Once again, comfort and simplicity are key. Wear your hair as you normally do. It usually doesn’t work well to try a new hairstyle for your sitting. Smooth hair will show best as loose ends pick up light and show prominently in your portrait . (very light use of hair spray and a lightweight scarf helps keep your hair in place)

Men: It is usually best to not have your hair cut right before your sitting. If necessary, try to get your hair cut at least a week before.

That being said, use this sitting as an opportunity to express your true personality. Bring along items that reflect who you are such as sport equipment, hobbies, crafts, books, uniforms. And don’t forget your pets! They are part of the family too. Feel free to call us with any questions or ideas before your sitting.

Billy & Crystal Slideshow

Portrait Pricing $250.00 + tax

1 hour (max 2), for a group up to five persons, on location or in studio. Price includes $100 towards prints. Your viewing session will include the images that best capture your goals for the session as well as an individualized Suggestion Brochure from the photographer for ways to use and display your images.